Can a protest be submitted electronically via EFS-Web?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30
This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.
No, a protest cannot be submitted electronically via EFS-Web. The MPEP explicitly states:
“A protest must NOT be submitted electronically via EFS-Web.“
Protests must be submitted by mail to the following address:
Mail Stop Petition
Commissioner for Patents
P.O. Box 1450
Alexandria, VA 22313-1450
It’s important to follow this guideline to ensure that your protest is properly received and processed by the USPTO.
Topics:
MPEP 1900 - Protest
MPEP 1901.03 - How Protest Is Submitted
Patent Law
Patent Procedure